Editing Services
Think of your favorite book. The plot transported you, the characters became like friends, and the themes impacted your own view of the world.
Your story can do the same for someone else.
So you do rounds of self-editing, seek feedback from beta readers, and bring your project to a critique partner or group. You implement their changes and take your novel as far as you can take it, dreaming of seeing it on bookstore shelves one day.
But even after all your hard work, you’re still not sure if your book stands apart from the crowd.
I can help.
Right now, your story is like a vein of diamond hidden inside a rocky cave. My goal is to provide guidance, tools, and encouragement as you dig your jewel out of the stone.
My editorial comments ask thoughtful questions, offer constructive solutions, and provide useful resources to help you refine your manuscript. If you choose Developmental Editing, you’ll receive personalized feedback on your plot, characters, theme, dialogue, pacing, and other big-picture elements of your story. Likewise, Line Editing will help you polish your narrative style, while Copyediting and Proofreading will ensure that your book is clear, concise, and free of grammatical errors.
My motto is, “I treat your novel like it’s my own, but I remember that it’s not.” In other words, I treat your story with as much care as I treat my own, but I also remember that it’s your story, not mine. I will offer suggestions on revising and tightening the wording, but I will not rewrite your work. I balance the readers’ expectations with your authorial voice to help you reach your audience as only you can.
Hiring an editor is an important investment as an author, whether you plan to publish traditionally or independently. Not only are you improving one manuscript; you’re also discovering your personal writing strengths and weaknesses so that you can continue growing with each book you write. In addition, a clean, well-edited manuscript communicates your professionalism to agents, publishers, and readers.
Your audience needs your story. Readers are waiting for your book to give them the joy of discovery, the courage to persevere, and the hope to know that they’re not alone.
That’s why I want to help you create a compelling story that nestles in readers’ hearts.
Are you ready? Contact me or explore my editing services below!
Developmental Editing
Service Description
In Developmental Editing, I provide detailed feedback on your plot structure, character development, scene structure, character arcs, conflict, suspense, worldbuilding, theme, dialogue, pacing, point of view, and other big-picture elements of your story. I make comments on each page of your manuscript using the Comments feature of Microsoft Word Track Changes. (Developmental Editing is also known as Content Editing or Substantive Editing.)
I also provide a 10- to 20-page Editorial Letter that summarizes your story’s overall strengths, areas of improvement, and recommended next steps. Once I return your manuscript, I offer a free follow-up consultation call, during which you can ask any questions about revisions, brainstorming, etc. You can schedule this call at any time within two months of receiving your edited manuscript.
Investment
$0.03-$0.04 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
4-6 weeks
Is it right for me?
Developmental Editing may be a good fit for you if you’ve done several rounds of self-editing and beta readers, but you’re looking for a professional opinion on your manuscript before submitting it to agents or independently publishing it.
Manuscript Critique
Service Description
In a Manuscript Critique, I read your entire manuscript and provide a 10- to 20-page Editorial Letter that summarizes your story’s strengths, areas of improvement, and recommended next steps. This letter provides a detailed step-by-step guide for revising your novel on your own. This service does not include line-by-line comments within the manuscript.
Investment
$0.015 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
3-4 weeks
Is it right for me?
A Manuscript Critique may be a good fit for you if you are confident in your ability to apply developmental edits on your own. This service is a good option for authors who aren’t yet ready for a full Developmental Edit.
Line Editing
Service Description
In Line Editing, I examine pacing, character voice, dialogue, clarity, word choice, passive voice, weasel words, showing vs. telling, and other aspects of your prose. I provide comments on each page of your manuscript using the Comments feature of Microsoft Word Track Changes. I will also provide a 3- to 5-page memo that summarizes the strengths, areas of improvement, and recommended next steps for your writing style. My suggestions will help you communicate more clearly in your personal authorial voice.
Investment
$0.025-$0.04 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
4-6 weeks
Is it right for me?
Line Editing may be a good fit for you if you’re confident in the foundational elements of your story (plot, characters, theme, etc.), and you’re looking to improve the readability and flow of your prose. Generally, Line Editing should be performed after Developmental Editing.
Copyediting
Service Description
In Copyediting, I review each sentence for correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, accuracy, clarity, logic, consistency, word usage, sentence structure, and transitions between ideas. I will make comments and corrections using Microsoft Word Track Changes.
Investment
$0.02-$0.03 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
3-4 weeks
Is it right for me?
Copyediting may be a good fit for you if you’ve polished your story and prose, and you want to ensure that your story is free of inconsistencies and grammatical errors. In general, Copyediting should be performed after you’ve refined your story and prose through Developmental Editing and Line Editing.
Proofreading
Service Description
In Proofreading, I examine your manuscript for any last-minute inaccuracies in spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, and consistency. I will make comments and corrections using Microsoft Word Track Changes.
Investment
$0.012-$0.02 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
3-4 weeks
Is it right for me?
Proofreading may be a good fit for you if you’re looking for a final evaluation of your manuscript before either submitting it to agents and publishers or independently publishing it. Proofreading analyzes the most detailed aspects of grammar and consistency, so it should only be performed after Developmental Editing, Line Editing, and Copyediting.
Story Coaching
Service Description
In Story Coaching, I work with you one-on-one to help you brainstorm and write your novel. Whether you would like help brainstorming a new story, assistance in solving a plot hole, encouragement when you’re stuck, or general writing tips, Story Coaching provides you with a real-time mentor. If you would like feedback on your written material, please send me up to 20 pages at least 48 hours before our scheduled call.
Investment
Story Coaching comes in several formats.
- One 30-minute call: $30
- One 60-minute call: $60
- Four 30-minute calls: $110 ($10 discount)
- Four 60-minute calls: $225 ($15 discount)
Timeframe
Story Coaching is very flexible! You choose the date and time.
Is it right for me?
Story Coaching may be a good fit for you if you would like one-on-one guidance and personalized direction on your manuscript.
Beta Reading
Service Description
In Beta Reading, I read your manuscript and provide a 3- to 5-page summary of your book’s strengths and areas of improvement. This summary covers large-scale elements, such as plot structure, characterization, theme, and dialogue. This service does not include line-by-line comments within the manuscript.
Investment
$0.008-$0.012 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
3-4 weeks
Is it right for me?
Beta Reading may be a good fit for you if you would like basic feedback on an early draft of your novel. Before you start polishing your prose, a Beta Read can help you make sure your plot and characters are solid.
Chapter Critique
Service Description
In a Chapter Critique, I provide editorial comments on each page of a single chapter. At the end of the critique, I will provide 3-5 paragraphs of overall comments and recommended next steps. Please provide the chapter, a brief summary of the story context/important information, and 3-5 questions you have about the chapter. Please submit these materials in a single document.
Investment
$0.03-$0.04 per word (industry standard)
Timeframe
5-10 days
Is it right for me?
A Chapter Critique may be a good fit for you if you have one specific chapter that is particularly pivotal in your plot, or if you’d like feedback on your opening chapter.
Book Proposal Critique
Service Description
In a Book Proposal Critique, I provide comments on your book proposal: a single document containing your one-page single-spaced query letter, one-page single-spaced synopsis, and first three chapters (double-spaced). My comments offer ways to strengthen wording, improve clarity, and increase marketability.
Investment
$500
Timeframe
2-4 weeks
Is it right for me?
A Book Proposal Critique may be a good fit for you if you’re preparing to submit your manuscript to an agent or publisher, and you’re looking for a professional opinion to help you make your best first impression.
Synopsis Critique
Service Description
In a Synopsis Critique, I provide comments on your one-page single-spaced fiction synopsis. My comments offer ways to strengthen wording, improve clarity, and increase marketability. This service also includes a review of up to two revisions of your synopsis.
Investment
$80
Timeframe
2-3 days for each review
Is it right for me?
A Synopsis Critique may be a good fit for you if you’re trying to make your synopsis stand out in preparation for submitting your materials to an agent or publisher.
Query Letter Critique
Service Description
In a Query Letter Critique, I provide comments on your query letter. My comments offer ways to strengthen wording, improve clarity, and increase marketability. This service also includes a review of up to two revisions of your query letter.
Investment
$40
Timeframe
2-3 days for each review
Is it right for me?
A Query Letter may be a good fit for you if you’re trying to make your query letter stand out in preparation for submitting your materials to an agent or publisher.
My Professional Credentials
- Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing: English and Minor in Professional Writing from Liberty University (summa cum laude)
- Independently published fiction author (The Time Travel Team: The Great Historic Mystery)
- Favorable Kirkus Indie Review featured in May 2019 issue of Kirkus Magazine
- Honored at 2022 Clear Water Press Summer Workshop as most prolific editor
- Finalist in 2022 Clear Water Press Student Novel Contest
- Four-time semifinalist in Clear Water Press Student Novel Contest
- Completed Developmental Fiction Editing Mastery with Joleen Graumann at the PEN Institute
- Completed Nadine Brandes’ online course, “Self-Edit Your First Draft”
Testimonials
[Jordyn] has proven herself to be faithful, kind, and extremely thoughtful. She has a creative mind and is dedicated to excellence in everything she does. I’m certain that any challenge I could throw at her would be met with enthusiasm and endless hard work.
Jordyn is a treasure trove of knowledge. If you are looking for someone who will approach your manuscript with a detailed eye, Jordyn is your editor. Not only are her developmental edits and comments going to help you notice what needs work, but her summary of your work is incredible. She is highly detailed and will give you so many resources that you’ll think you just stepped out of a college level class. Her macro letter (editorial letter) lets you know what needs work, gives you examples straight from your manuscript, and finishes with Next Steps that include resources to guide you. You are not just paying her to look at your manuscript, you are paying for her knowledge and expertise—which is well worth it.
In the publishing world, genuine friendliness and respect toward others is worth their weight in gold, and Jordyn displays both. She presented herself as kind and professional throughout our entire meeting. From seeing her around the campus during workshop, it was evident that other workshop students held her in high regard as well.
Jordyn possesses strong work ethic. This was clear to me as she listed the efforts made and achievements gained with her degree. She has also continued her education after graduation to prepare herself to become an editor, including completing paid jobs for editing fiction and finishing a mentorship with a professional editor.
Finally, Jordyn is curious and has a teachable spirit. Both of these attributes are key to storytelling and growing in one’s field of expertise. She came to our meeting prepared with many researched questions, took notes, and politely requested more information when something wasn’t clear to her.
I shudder to think what my novel, Cabin Girl, would be like if Jordyn never invested so much of her time, talent, and eye for details into it.
In the beginning stages of my story, she offered thoughtful and extremely in-depth developmental critiques that molded and transformed the rough draft. In later drafts, she caught dozens of typos, grammar mistakes, and clumsily-worded sentences I’d missed. And to top it off, she’s never ceased being a supportive and enthusiastic encourager for both my story, and me, as I’ve worked to publish Cabin Girl (something I finally feel confident doing).
It’s impossible to express how grateful I am that I stumbled across Jordyn and her incredible heart and skills. I can’t recommend her services highly enough!
Jordyn has been an incredible critiquer for my historical fiction novel. I appreciate how she critiqued not just my first draft, but also future revised drafts. She helped me brainstorm ways to create a more compelling opening chapter and wasn’t afraid to be completely honest in her feedback. She always asked a lot of thought-provoking questions that helped me dive into my characters’ thoughts, emotions, and reactions. For a long time, I struggled with description. Jordyn challenged me in this area and gave me specific ideas for ways to improve my description. One of my favorite things about her is that she points out areas I did well in as well as ways I can improve. Her constructive feedback inspired me to keep writing, even when I felt like giving up on my story. I now plan to self-publish this novel. Jordyn has poured so much thoughtful feedback into my story and has helped shape it into the novel it is today.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re not sure which editing service is right for you, feel free to reach out using the contact form at the bottom of this page. I’d be happy to discuss your author goals so that you can make the best decision for your project.
I’m flexible in the genres I edit! I’m most familiar with contemporary, science fiction, mystery, fantasy, historical, and YA.
If you have questions about genres or content guidelines, feel free to contact me so that I can determine whether I’m the best editor to give your project the attention it deserves.
I work with both types of authors! I also work with authors who are pursuing writing as a hobby.
I do edit nonfiction manuscripts. If you have a nonfiction manuscript, please contact me so that we can discuss the details of your project.
I use the Chicago Manual of Style, which is the industry standard for fiction publishing.
Yes, I do include copyediting (spelling, grammar, punctuation, and word usage) in Developmental Editing, Line Editing, Chapter Critique, Book Proposal Critique, Synopsis Critique, and Query Letter Critique. In each of these services, I will make any necessary grammatical corrections using Microsoft Word Track Changes. Many editors do not include copyediting in their developmental edits, so you get an added service when you work with me!
Developmental Editing provides feedback on elements that affect the entire novel, such as plot structure, characters, and theme. Meanwhile, Line Editing examines aspects of the prose, such as pacing, word choice, and sentence structure.
Line Editing examines the flow of your sentences and paragraphs, while Copyediting concentrates on spelling, grammar, consistency, and word usage.
Although both Copyediting and Proofreading correct spelling and grammar, Copyediting also examines consistency, logic, word usage, and transitions between ideas. Meanwhile, proofreading focuses solely on catching errors in grammar and punctuation before the book goes to print.
I’m flexible in the way I accept payment. I discuss payment methods individually with each client.
Please format your manuscript as a Microsoft Word document with 12-point, double-spaced Times New Roman font and 1-inch margins. Each chapter should begin on a new page.
In addition to the Word document of your manuscript, please send me your synopsis, style sheet, and 10 questions about your manuscript. The 10 questions will help me know where to focus my feedback.
If you would like to request sample edits, please reach out using the contact form below. Before I work with you, I will provide sample edits for a small fee so that we can determine whether we are a good fit for each other.
In Developmental Editing, I use the Comments feature in Microsoft Word Track Changes to leave comments on your manuscript. In all my editing services, I do not make any changes to the text itself except for basic grammar edits (missing commas, etc.). Most of my edits will be in the comments and in the Editorial Letter.
As I mentioned, I firmly believe in preserving the author’s voice. My comments are intended to help you communicate clearly in your voice, not in mine.
An Editorial Letter, also known as a Macro Letter or Revision Letter, is a 10- to 20-page letter that summarizes my overall comments on the plot, characters, theme, dialogue, point of view (POV), and other big-picture elements of your manuscript. A Manuscript Critique includes this letter only, while a Developmental Edit includes this letter as well as line-by-line comments on the manuscript.
You’re not obligated to make my suggested edits. It’s your story, not mine. However, I do believe that considering my comments would benefit your story. I make every comment with the goal of helping you communicate your intended story more clearly, but you know your project best. In many comments, I offer examples of possible solutions, but these examples are meant to be a starting point for your own ideas.
I cannot guarantee that your edited manuscript will be accepted by an agent or publisher. No editor can make this guarantee. However, I can tell you that if you’re willing to invest the time and effort, you will certainly improve as a writer and achieve the incredibly fulfilling accomplishment of producing a story to be proud of!
Editors are human and cannot guarantee that they will catch every single error. However, I will do my best to spot and provide solutions to as many issues as I can.
Yes, you may! After you revise your manuscript, I can perform additional rounds of editing on the same project at a discounted rate.
I will never use AI to edit or critique your work, and I don’t work on manuscripts that contain any amount of material generated by generative AI.
Ready to make your novel amazing?
I would love to work with you!
If you’d like to inquire about editing services, request sample edits, or ask other questions, please send me an inquiry using the form below: